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Doctors warn about the highly contagious Thailand fungus. It will no longer disappear in Germany. The consequences can be painful and the treatment can take a long time.
Munich – Respiratory diseases have been rampant in Germany and Austria since the summer and have tied many people to bed. But it’s not just corona, rhino and influenza viruses that are spreading – a painful skin fungus is also increasingly making the rounds.
In Germany, the highly infectious fungus Trichophyton mentagrophytes VII – also called the Thailand mushroom – is comparatively young and came from outside. However, it has long since established itself here, as dermatologists explain. He should not be underestimated.
Painful and extremely contagious – Thailand fungus is particularly rampant in Germany’s cities
The risk of a fungal infection is significantly higher in large cities, as dermatologists spoke to the Pharmacy survey confirm. Although the fungus is not life-threatening, it can be painful and, in the worst case, have severe side effects. It is also extremely contagious.
The genital area is usually affected by the Thailand mushroom, but not necessarily. Other parts of the body can also be affected by the highly contagious infection. (Symbolic photo) © Imago
“Especially in the last few months we have seen a lot of patients with these infections in our outpatient clinic,” reports Dr. Julia Huynh, a dermatological specialist at the Berlin Charité, told the health magazine. “However, the occurrence depends very much on the location. If you work in Berlin like I do, you see significantly more cases than in rural areas,” she adds.
The high number of infections could also be related to travel. The fungus was first discovered in Europe in travelers returning from Thailand, hence its nickname. In 2015, a woman from Sweden brought the pathogen from the holiday paradise of Asia to Europe. In the same year, the first cases were reported in Germany. It is an “international fungus that has spread worldwide,” explains Hans-Jürgen Tietz from the Professional Association of German Dermatologists Focus. “It is now endemic in Germany,” said the expert.
Painful inflammation – in the worst case, the Thailand fungus has to be removed in the operating room
The Thailand mushroom is the first skin fungus that is sexually transmitted. Men are particularly at risk. However, an infection does not have to be preceded by sexual intercourse. “The fungus can also appear after cruises and hotel visits,” warns Tietz. The fungus can hide in guest beds and towels. The more people come together, the higher the risk of infection. “We now mostly see patients who were infected in Germany,” says Dr. Huynh.
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Signs were particularly evident in the genital area, “but other parts of the body” were also affected, explains the Charité expert. The fungus causes purulent skin infections. “Severe inflammation occurs again and again, which then leads to massive pustules and pronounced fistulas,” says specialist Norbert Brockmeyer.
“Fever can also occur with these very deep infections. Inpatient admission may then become necessary. And in individual cases also a surgical procedure if you have to split the fistulas so that the pus that has formed can drain away better,” he adds. Unlike, for example, a dangerous yeast fungus, the Thailand mushroom fortunately does not attack the organs. The experts list the following symptoms:
- Redness over circular rashes
- itching
- Purulent wounds
- abscesses
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Pain – especially when sitting
Skin fungus is spreading – there is a risk of confusion with bacterial infections
Treating the fungus can be lengthy and requires special tablets called antifungals. Superficial treatment with ointments is usually not enough. “Since Trichophyton mentagrophytes VII causes a deep fungal infection, it usually has to be treated with tablets,” says Dr. Huynh. The treatment can take several months, but the chances of recovery are very good.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Unfortunately, our editors are not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.
In order to avoid severe progression, the infection must be diagnosed. “The problem is that the fungus is often overlooked,” warns Dr. Huynh. “Unfortunately, because the fungus is so purulent, it is often confused with bacterial infections.” It is therefore important to seek medical advice at the first signs.
